Description
This Chocolate Crunch Granola is a deliciously crunchy and chocolatey treat perfect for breakfast or snacking. Combining oats, nuts, and cocoa, it’s baked to golden perfection for a sweet, satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with milk or yogurt.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Extras
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, added after baking)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for a gentle, even bake that will crisp the granola without burning it.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, chopped walnuts, cocoa powder, brown sugar, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute all the components.
- Add wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until every oat and nut is evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
- Bake the granola: Spread the mixture evenly on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. The granola should be crisp and slightly darkened but not burnt.
- Add chocolate chips: Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the mini chocolate chips over the warm granola. Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet so it crisps up and the chips set without melting too much.
- Store and serve: Once cooled, break the granola into clusters if desired, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy with milk, yogurt, or as a crunchy snack on its own.
Notes
- Ensure the granola is completely cooled before storing to maintain crunchiness.
- You can substitute any nuts or omit them to make it nut-free.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the maple syrup or brown sugar quantities according to taste.
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup or agave nectar and omit any non-vegan chocolate chips if added.
